If you haven’t yet heard, Caterpillar’s new M-Series Motor Graders have replaced the conventional motor grader’s steering wheel and multiple control levers with two multi-function, three-axis joysticks. These controls in its new seven-model M-Series line-up can reduce operator hand and arm movement by as much as 78 percent.
A number of grader operators with Adams County Roads Department, Island Landhandlers, Inc., Hooker Brothers Construction and Hall County Highway Department are still smiling weeks after becoming some of the first in the area to test drive the new 140M motor grader.
“The 140M has comfortable controls – they’re easy to get used to operating. Good clearance around blade area and it has good power,” said Kelvin Kleeb, equipment manager of Hooker Brothers Construction.
Wes Sich of Hooker Brothers Construction commented, “It was very operator-friendly. I was comfortable with steering and controls very quickly.”
“Visibility is outstanding. Learning the controls comes very easy and they feel like an extension of your hand,” said Steve Hesman of Adams County Roads Department.
Dennis Zarek of Adams County Roads Department put it simply, “A guy could get used to this in no time.”
Similar sentiments were received from Island Landhandlers, Inc. and Hall County Highway Department grader operators.
Dave Loeffler of Island Landhandlers, Inc. commented, “Moldboard visibility
is great and cab access is very good.” “It’s very quiet in and out of the cab and there’s plenty of power,” noted Casey Sherlock of Hall County Highway Department.
In addition to the new joystick controls, the 140M features the latest in ACERT™ Technology which meets U.S. EPA Tier 3 and EU Stage IIIa emissions regulations, a new direct-drive countershaft transmission with electronic clutch-pres-sure control, modular rear axle and a new hydrostatic front-wheel-drive system. This new machine represents a revolution in operational efficiency, visibility, service ease and overall productivity.
